FIFA has officially announced the return of its iconic football video game franchise, revealing that the new FIFA game will launch exclusively on Netflix ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement marks a major shift in the history of the franchise and FIFA’s digital strategy.
FIFA’s Return After EA Split
The FIFA video game series had remained inactive for several years following FIFA’s separation from Electronic Arts (EA). In 2023, EA ended its long-standing partnership with FIFA due to licensing disagreements and rebranded its football game series as EA Sports FC, leaving the FIFA name unused in gaming.
This new announcement confirms FIFA’s return to the gaming market under a completely different model.
Exclusive Partnership with Netflix
In a surprising move, FIFA has partnered with Netflix, a global streaming platform rather than a traditional game publisher. Netflix has secured exclusive rights to develop and distribute the new FIFA game, which is planned to launch before the 2026 World Cup.
The decision reflects Netflix’s expanding focus on interactive entertainment and mobile gaming.
FIFA Leadership’s Vision
FIFA President Gianni Infantino welcomed the partnership, describing the project as “the beginning of a new era of digital football.” He emphasized that the game will be free for Netflix subscribers, calling it a major step in FIFA’s global digital expansion.
Development and Gameplay Platform
The new FIFA title will be developed by Delphi Interactive, a California-based studio that has not previously released a commercial video game. Despite its limited track record, the studio has been entrusted with reviving one of the most recognizable names in sports gaming.
The game will follow a mobile-first approach, allowing Netflix subscribers to play through:
- The Netflix app on iOS and Android devices
- Select smart TVs, using mobile phones as controllers
Fan Reactions
The announcement has generated mixed reactions among fans. While many welcomed the return of the FIFA brand, others expressed concern about the game’s mobile-focused design and the absence of traditional console and PC platforms at launch.
Conclusion
FIFA’s exclusive partnership with Netflix represents a bold and unconventional move, signaling a new direction for the legendary football gaming franchise. As the launch approaches ahead of the 2026 World Cup, industry observers and fans alike will be watching closely to see whether this new model can successfully redefine FIFA’s place in the gaming world.
